We work on viruses and viral vectors. We are interested in the molecular and structural biology of how RNA viruses package their genetic material and how they select their own RNA from the cell so specifically. We focus on lentiviruses like HIV, the cause of AIDS. We also use lentiviruses as vectors for gene delivery and collaborate with other Departments working towards genetic treatments for disease.

In our packaging signal studies we use new RNA modelling methods like SHAPE to identify important RNA structures involved in genome encapsidation. We also collaborate with the Department of Chemistry in using single molecule techniques. We are interested in cellular proteins involved in HIV replication which we have identified using siRNA screens.

Our lentiviral gene delivery work currently concerns methods to reduce transplant rejection in collaboration with the Department of Surgery.